One of the leaders for the Illinois defense is not in action as the Illini are taking on B1G West foe Purdue.

According to Jeremy Werner with the Illini Inquirer, star linebacker Jake Hansen is present but not playing in the game against the Boilermakers. No official word on the status of Hansen has been provided at this point.

An update on Hansen’s absence will be something to keep an eye on:

Hansen entered the week as the leading tackler for the Illini with 30 tackles. He also has 2.5 TFL, a sack, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery.

For his career, Hansen has 272 total tackles, 12 forced fumbles, 7 fumble recoveries, and 3 interceptions. Hopefully, he will be back in action soon, but we will wait to hear what his status is moving forward.